How to Interview Like an Executive

Posted May 10, 2016byCSS

Regardless of your qualifications and how you look “on paper,” interviews ultimately determine whether or not you will get the job. Waking up the day of your interview and hoping for the best is no way to approach this critical step of the hiring process. No matter where you are in your career, if you interview like an executive, you will be sure to impress.

Why Do You Want The Job?

You will undoubtedly be asked why you are going after the position. Prepare an answer that discusses the specific reasons why the job posting moved you to apply. Don’t simply address the fact that it is different from your current position. Perhaps the company’s reputation in the industry speaks to you, or maybe it’s the opportunity to work on one of their most innovative product lines. Think through your answer and articulate your motivation clearly and concisely.

Focus On The Employer’s Corporate Values

An organization’s mission and values were developed for a very specific reason, and hiring managers are looking for employees whose own values align with theirs. Study up on the company’s mission statement and driving values, and weave those values into your answers.

Practice Detailed Brevity

Interviews are stressful, and it’s easy to find yourself crafting lengthy answers that veer off the subject at hand. Practice answering interview questions succinctly, focusing on the most important details. Listen carefully to each question and make it your mission to get to the point quickly. Remember that stories have a beginning, a middle and an end.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

It’s up to you to conduct research about the company before you walk through the door. Don’t ask questions that can be found through a quick Google search. Craft a list of thoughtful questions that will help you make the right decision should you be offered the position. Questions like these can help you stand out among a sea of candidates asking basic questions as, well:

What is the biggest change this team has experienced this year?

What are the key goals you’d like to see the new hire accomplish in the next three months, six months and year?

What is your (or my future boss’s) leadership style?

What type of people succeed on this team? What types do not?

Ask About The Next Step

This is Interview 101, but even experienced professionals can forget to ask about the next steps. Write the question on your list so that you do not fall into the trap of missing this critical question that shows your ongoing interest in the job.

Send A Well-Written Thank You Note

Thank you notes are important, but take care to craft a thoughtful, well-written note that thanks the interviews for their time, expresses your interest in the job, reinforces the qualities that make you a great candidate. Be sure to send it no less than 24 hours after your interview.

If you are a talented professional ready to find the perfect position to help you take the next step in your career, you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to the recruiters at Contemporary Staffing Solutions today to learn about our recipe for your success.